December 27, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Friday, December 27, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, and Buck Nordlof. Joining by Teams Meeting: Commissioner Ed Arnesen. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with changes: Add: IT Update, Cannabis Ordinance Resolution, Resignation/Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire. Remove: Public Works

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the official minutes of December 17, 2024 with the following changes: Correct the 2025 board meeting dates to change November 11^th to November 12^th due to a holiday, Update the Cannabis Ordinance motion to reflect recommendations.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $4,870.09; Commissioners Warrants $2,228.13; Commissioners Warrants $46,772.50.

2025 Purchase of Service Agreement -Meridian Services, Inc.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the 2025 Purchase of Service Agreement with Meridian Services,Inc. effective January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.

Rural Transportation Collaborative Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Rural Transportation Collaborative contract for Volunteer Driver Services effective January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.

Permission to Advertise, Interview, & Hire

Social Services Director Amy Ballard informed the board that she had received a resignation from Eligibility Worker Cassie Brune and requested permission to advertise, interview, and hire.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the request to advertise, interview, and hire an Eligibility Worker at Grade 11, Step 1, 262 points at $24.89 per hour.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $37,742.14; Road & Bridge $27,110.65; County Development $200.00; Joint Ditch $4,291.88; Solid Waste $9,690.11.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/27/2024 For Payment 12/30/2024

American Solutions For Business 2,138.34 

Clay County Sheriff 2,473.02 

Compass Minerals America           11,962.46 

Computer Integration Technologies 2,624.00 

Interstate Engineering Inc           11,263.87 

KC TECH LLC 2,925.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys 8,602.50 

Northdale Oil Inc. 3,460.50 

Outdoors Again 3,978.84 

Peppermint Creek Services,LLC 2,200.00 

Roseau County Treasurer 4,291.88 

U.S. Bank Equipment Finance 6,268.50 

38  Payments less than  2000    16,845.87

Final Total: 79,034.78

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: December 18, 2024 for $432,889.08; December 23,2024 for $12,246.36.

Motion to Pay Year End Bills

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the payment of year end bills on the Auditors list on December 31, 2024.

IRS Mileage Rate

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the 2025 Standard IRS Mileage rate for business miles at .70 cents per mile.

Resolution for Year End Commitments

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the following:

RESOLUTION

YEAR END COMMITMENT OF FUNDS

RESOLUTION NO. 24-12-04

WHEREAS, per Lake of the Woods County Fund Balance Policy, the County Board will annually or as deemed necessary commit specific revenue sources for specified purposed by resolution;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake of the Woods County hereby commits the following reserves with the amounts to be determined at a later date: Building; Community Health; Elections; Health/Medical; Housing Rehabilitation; Land & Building Acquisitions; Sheriff’s Posse; Sheriff’s Vending Commission; Technology; Transit; Drainage Maintenance; Economic Development; Prepaid Fiber; SANE; Snowmobile Trails; Future Equipment, and Future Budget Expenditures; Borderland DUI Drug Court; Wetland Banks; Opioid Funds; USDA Funds; Day Care-Deed; Sewer.

EDA Board Member Appointment

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously by roll call to adopt the following resolution:

Re-Appointment of Terms of the economic development authority

Resolution 24-12-05

Whereas Lake of the Woods County Board, pursuant to MN Statute §469.093, Subd.1 has provided a public notice and conducted a public hearing on September 14, 2010 to consider the creation of an Economic Development Authority and adopted the Enabling Resolution creating the same; and

Whereas the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods adopted the following:

The EDA shall consist of a governing body of nine (9) members, as per the adopted Enabling Resolution, of which: Five (5) Sitting Commissioners, Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners

Four (4) Members shall be nominated by the following organizations and appointed by the County Board:

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to recommend appointment

Chamber of Commerce to recommend appointment

Lake of the Woods Tourism to recommend appointment

City of Baudette to recommend appointment

The Board Members and 6-year terms are established as follows:

Board Member Term Expires Representing

Steve Theis Jr. 12/31/2029 City of Baudette

James “Buck” Nordlof 12/31/2029 County Board District 1

Jeff Bauers 12/31/2024 IDC

Paul Johnson 12/31/2024 Tourism Board

Ed Arnesen 12/31/2025 County Board District 5

Jon Waibel 12/31/2025 County Board District 4

Brittney Peterson 12/31/2026 Chamber of Commerce

Cody Hasbargen 12/31/2027 County Board District 2 

Joe Grund 12/31/2028 County Board District 3

Whereas the City of Baudette member is to be replaced;

Now, therefore, be it resolved that the County Board of Commissioners of the County of Lake of the Woods hereby rappoints the following board members for a 6-year term;

Board Member              Term Expires Representing

Jeff Bauers.             12/31/2030 IDC

Paul Johnson                     12/31/2030 Tourism Board 

Wheelers Sanitation Board Member Appointment

Wheelers Point Sewer Board Members and Terms

Alan Thompson       Three Year Term     21 Thru 01/02/2027

Marshall Monk        Three Year Term     21 Thru 01/02/2027

Brian Ney                Three Year Term     23 Thru 01/02/2026

Paul Johnson           Three Year Term     23 Thru 01/02/2026

Justin Ferguson       Three Year Term     19 Thru 01/02/2025

Motion

Motion was made by Buck Nordlof, seconded by Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to appoint Justin Ferguson to the Wheeler’s Point Sanitary District Board for a three year term beginning January 2, 2025 thru January 2, 2028. 

Transfer of Funds to Ditch Funds

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously by roll call to authorize a temporary loan to Ditch Fund 22; to mitigate a temporary negative cash balance.

DNR Lease Agreement

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the DNR lease agreement for part of Government Lot 4, Section 12, Township 162 North, Range 33 West, 1.15 acres in Region 1-Zipple Bay State Park.

Cannabis Ordinance

Resolution

RESOLUTION NO. 24-12-06

OF THE LAKE OF THE WOODS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AUTHORIZING SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF AN ORDINANCE.

At a regular meeting of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, held on Friday, December 27, 2024, following discussion, a Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried by roll call with Commissioner Ed Arnesen abstaining, for passage of the following Resolution:

THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

WHEREAS, On December 17, 2024, following discussion, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance number 24-12-06, “An Ordinance of Lake of the Woods County to Regulate Cannabis Businesses” (“Ordinance”), which Ordinance is effective upon publication. 

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has determined the publication of the title and a summary is prudent due to the lengthy nature of “An Ordinance of Lake of the Woods County to Regulate Cannabis Businesses”

WHEREAS, Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §§ 375.51 and M.S. 331A.01, Subd. 10, summary publication of a lengthy ordinance is authorized and the County Board may direct that only the title of the Ordinance and a summary be published with notice that a printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at the County Offices; and 

WHEREAS, Prior to the publication of the title and summary, the County has read and approved the text of the summary and determined that it clearly informs the public of the intent and effect of the Ordinance; and

WHEREAS, The County Board finds that the text of the Summary Publication of Ordinance Number 24-12-06 attached clearly informs the public of the nature and intent of the proposed Ordinance.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS resolves that summary publication of Ordinance Number 24-12-06  “An Ordinance of Lake of the Woods County to Regulate Cannabis Businesses”  is prudent due to its length . 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: the publication shall read as follows: 

SUMMARY PUBLICATION FOR LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

ORDINANCE NUMBER 24-12-06

“ORDINANCE NUMBER 24-12-06 AN ORDINANCE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY TO REGULATE CANNABIS BUSINESSES”

Summary: Ordinance Number 24-12-06 was adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on December 17, 2024 following public hearing and upon the recommendation of the Lake of the Woods County Planning Commission:

The purpose of this Ordinance is to regulate the use of cannabis businesses located in Lake of the Woods County, including registration requirements, and registration fees, and setting forth requirements for the time, place, and manner of the operation of retail cannabis businesses located in Lake of the Woods County. The Ordinance further prohibits the use of cannabis products in public places. The Ordinance further provides for civil penalties and suspension of registrations for non-compliance. This summary is adopted pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 331A.01 and 375.51. A printed copy of the entire Ordinance is available for inspection and copying at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, 206 8^th Ave SE, Suite 290, Baudette, Minnesota 56623, or by standard or electronic mail. 

ORDINANCE ADOPTED by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on December 17, 2024 and Summary Publication approved on December 27, 2024 

Zoning Ordinance Amendment

Resolution

RESOLUTION NO. 24-12-07

THE LAKE OF THE WOODS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AUTHORIZING SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF AN ORDINANCE.

At a regular meeting of the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners, held on Friday, December 27, 2024, following discussion, a Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote was unanimously carried by roll call with Commissioner Ed Arnesen abstaining, for passage of the following Resolution:

THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY, MINNESOTA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

WHEREAS, On December 17, 2024, following discussion, the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance number 24-12-07, “An Ordinance of Lake of the Woods County to Regulate Zoning” (“Ordinance”), which Ordinance is effective upon publication. 

WHEREAS, The Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners has determined the publication of the title and a summary is prudent due to the lengthy nature of “An Ordinance of Lake of the Woods County to Regulate Zoning”

WHEREAS, Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §§ 375.51 and M.S. 331A.01, Subd. 10, summary publication of a lengthy ordinance is authorized and the County Board may direct that only the title of the Ordinance and a summary be published with notice that a printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at the County Offices; and 

WHEREAS, Prior to the publication of the title and summary, the County has read and approved the text of the summary and determined that it clearly informs the public of the intent and effect of the Ordinance; and

WHEREAS, The County Board finds that the text of the Summary Publication of Ordinance Number 24-12-07 attached clearly informs the public of the nature and intent of the proposed Ordinance.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS resolves that summary publication of Ordinance Number 24-12-07 “An Ordinance of Lake of the Woods County to Regulate Zoning”  is prudent due to its length . 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: the publication shall read as follows: 

SUMMARY PUBLICATION FOR LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY

ORDINANCE NUMBER 24-12-07

“ORDINANCE NUMBER 24-12-07 AN ORDINANCE LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY TO REGULATE ZONING”

Summary: Ordinance Number 24-12-07 was adopted by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on December 17, 2024 following public hearing and upon the recommendation of the Lake of the Woods County Planning Commission:

The purpose of this Ordinance amendment is to comply with Minnesota Statute 342, and Resolution 24-12-06, which allows Lake of the Woods County to regulate the use of cannabis businesses located in Lake of the Woods County, including registration requirements, and registration fees, and setting forth requirements for the time, place, and manner of the operation of retail cannabis businesses located in Lake of the Woods County. The Ordinance further prohibits the use of cannabis products in public places. This summary is adopted pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 331A.01 and 375.51. A printed copy of the entire Ordinance is available for inspection and copying at the Lake of the Woods County Courthouse, 206 8^th Ave SE, Suite 290, Baudette, Minnesota 56623, or by standard or electronic mail. 

ORDINANCE ADOPTED by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners on December 17, 2024 and Summary Publication approved on December 27, 2024 

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for budget review on January 7, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Old/New Business

The board reviewed old/new business items and Assistant Engineer Boyd Johnson gave an update on the town road inventory. It was the consensus of the board to leave the following items on the list: Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council/Outdoor Heritage Fund, Land Trade, Township Road Inventory, Law Enforcement Center, Unused Wells, and County Life Flight/Ambulance.

IT Updates

MIS Director Peder Hovland gave an update on cyber security and reporting.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to adjourn the meeting at 9:45 a.m.

Attest: January 14, 2025

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Commissioner Cody Hasbargen

December 17, 2024

The Lake of The Woods County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Lake of the Woods County Government Center in the Commissioners’ Room.

CALL TO ORDER

Chair Cody Hasbargen called the meeting to order at 9:00a.m. and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited with the following members present: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, Ed Arnesen, and Buck Nordlof. Also present was County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously by roll call to approve the agenda with additions: Approval of Union Contracts, Approval of Gambling Permit, FY25 Snowmobile Grant in Aid Agreement, FY23 Stonegarden Grant, Correspondence MCIT.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the official minutes of November 26, 2024.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnsen and carried unanimously to approve the following claims: Commissioners Warrants $11,082.24; Commissioners Warrants $5,924.89; Commissioners Warrants $66,451.14.

Sanford Crisis Contract Addendum Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Sanford Crisis Contract Addendum to amend the dates of the original contract.

Purchase of Services Agreement-Psychiatric Medication Management Services

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the Purchase of Services Agreement with Schackman, Kramer & Associates for Psychiatric Medication Management Services effective January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2026.

Human Services

Solid Waste Final Union Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Union Contract for the Solid Waste Department and for Chair Cody Hasbargen and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Highway Final Union Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the Union Contract for the Highway Department and for Chair Cody Hasbargen and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) Licensed Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the LELS Licensed Contract and for Chair Cody Hasbargen and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) Non-Licensed Contract

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the LELS Non-Licensed Contract and for Chair Cody Hasbargen and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Auditor/Treasurer

Claims

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the claims against the County as follows: Revenue $149,523.20; Road & Bridge $48,165.81; County Development $200.00; Natl Resc Enhanc $3,544.00; Joint Ditch $44.70; Solid Waste $35,377.22; EDA $1,097.92.

WARRANTS FOR PUBLICATION

Warrants Approved On 12/17/2024 For Payment 12/20/2024

ARRO of the North, LLC – 5,800.00 

Auto Value Baudette – 2,971.12 

Clay County Sheriff – 2,523.32 

Co-Op Services, Inc – 4,215.62 

Counties Providing Technology – 9,554.00 

Forum Communications Printing – 2,418.49 

Houston Engineering Inc – 8,976.00 

Integris LLC  – 5,465.61 

Koochiching Co Treasurer – 2,500.00 

Lakewood Health Center – 31,250.00 

Larkin Hoffman Attorneys – 6,410.00 

Law Offices Of Patrick D. Moren – 9,387.33 

Mar-Kit Landfill – 10,468.75 

Marco Technologies LLC – 2,389.20 

Motorola Solutions, Inc – 11,112.50 

Northdale Oil Inc. –  8,366.69 

Pennington County Sheriff Office – 13,559.77 

Pro Mac Equipment Ltd. –  2,165.71 

R & Q Trucking, Inc – 4,176.00 

Rainy Lake Oil, Inc – 3,295.28 

Rinke-Noonan – 2,144.00 

Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc  – 9,119.33 

Titan Energy Systems, Inc – 3,001.50 

University Of Mn – 15,121.50 

WIDSETH  INC. – 2,850.00 

Ziegler, Inc – 19,680.34 

76 Payments less than 2000 39,030.79

Final Total:  237,952.85

Further moved to authorize the payment of the following auditor warrants: November 27, 2024 for $559,651.55; December 4, 2024 for $10,392.15; December 4, 2024 for $360,091.52; December 11, 2024 for $415,659.44.

Lodging Tax Agreement-Department of Revenue

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Lodging Tax Agreement between Lake of the Woods County and Minnesota Department of Revenue and for Chair Cody Hasbargen and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Salaries

2025 Elected Officials & Non-Elected Department Heads Salaries

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to adopt the following County Commissioners salaries schedule and County Board Chair salary schedule for the year 2025; and to adopt a committee meeting per diem of $125.00 for the year 2025.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Elected Officials – Commissioners:

Commissioners                 $ 25,000.00                      

Board Chair                      $ 26,000.00       

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof to adopt a Technology Fee of $50.00 per month for County Commissioners for the year 2025. (Technology fee reimbursement for county related phone, internet, computer and copy expenses.)  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and unanimously carried to approve the 2025 Salary Grade Table, with an increase of $2.00 to the 2024 Salary Grade Table. This table is to be used by all employees excluding employees under the Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Unions – Licensed and Non-Licensed.

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and unanimously carried to approve the 2025 Salary Grade Table, with an increase of 3% to the 2024 Salary Grade Table. This table is to be used by all employees under the Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Unions – Licensed and Non-Licensed.

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and unanimously carried to adopt the following Elected Officials salary schedule for the year 2025.  

Elected Officials – Department Heads:

Interim County Attorney      $ 140,000.00       (plus mileage)

County Recorder                  $   95,066.64

County Sheriff                      $ 109,306.80

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2025.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Assessor                              Alisa Jacobsen            $   86,610.24    

Aud/Treas                        Lorene Hanson       $ 115,696.08

Land/Water                         Josh Stromlund           $ 103,919.76

MIS Director                       Peder Hovland            $ 102,082.32

Public Works                      Anthony Pirkl                 $ 143,500.00    

Social Service                     Amy Ballard              $ 103,898.88

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adopt the following Non-Elected Department Heads salary schedule for the year 2025.  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.  

Non-Elected – Department Heads:

Human Resources           Savanna Slick                  $   40,684.68          

Veterans Service             Rick Rone                        $   30,975.48

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Highway Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen to adjust all full time Highway Union employees’ salary by a $2.00 general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2025.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Solid Waste Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adjust all full time Solid Waste Union employees’ salary by a $2.00 general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2025.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Salary Adjustment, as agreed upon per Union Contract

Motion- Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel to adjust all Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Union (Licensed and Non-Licensed) employees’ salary by 3% general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2025.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

All County Employees (Full time/Permanent Part Time/Part Time/Seasonal Employees) Salary Adjustment (Excluding Elected and Non-Elected Department Heads, International Union of Operating Engineers Union Employees and Licensed and Non-Licensed Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc Union Employees) 

Motion- Non-Union

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund to adjust all non-union employees: full time, permanent part time, part time and seasonal (excluding elected and non-elected department heads) salaries by a $2.00 general adjustment and by 1 merit step, if applicable (not maxed), effective January 1, 2025.  Motion was seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Health Insurance/Health Care Savings Plan

Motion (motion made 10/22/2024)

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to set the 2025 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1470 per month and single health insurance up to $1120 per month.  The Public Employees Insurance Program “Advantage Plan” consists of “High” and “HSA” plans.  For the HSA plans only, any excess county contribution will be deposited directly into the employee’s health savings account, up to the IRS caps.  

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set the 2025 county contribution for family health insurance up to $1470 per month for all Highway Union and Solid Waste Union employees.  The International Union of Operating Engineers Local No 49 AFL-CIO health insurance consists of family coverage only.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the renewal and amended Health Care Savings Plan (HCSP), (as presented) that all PERA eligible Lake of the Woods County employees contribute two percent (2%) of their regular pay (no overtime) into their Health Care Savings Plan (HCSP); in addition, Lake of the Woods County, as employer, will contribute two percent (2%) of the employee’s regular pay (no overtime) to the same all PERA eligible Lake of the Woods County employees, effective January 1, 2025.

2025 Board Meeting Dates

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following board meeting dates for 2025:

2025 LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY BOARD MEETING DATES

January

Tuesday, January 7 (Organizational Meeting)             9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, January 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

February

Tuesday, February 11 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, February 25 8:15 a.m. Lake Of The Woods School (TBD)

March

Tuesday, March 11 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, March 25 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

April

Tuesday, April 8 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, April 22               9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

May

Tuesday, May 13 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, May 27 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

June

Tuesday, June 10 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room     

Tuesday, June 17 10:00 a.m. NWA

Monday, June 23               6:00 p.m. Board Of Equalization

Tuesday, June 24 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

July

Tuesday, July 8 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, July 22 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

August

Tuesday, August 12                                           9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, August 26 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

September

Tuesday, September 9 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, September 23 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

October

Tuesday, October 14 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, October 28 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

November

Wednesday, November 12                                            9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, November 25       9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

December

Tuesday, December 16 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

Tuesday, December 16 6:00 p.m. TNT MEETING

Tuesday, December 30       9:00 a.m. Government Center, Commissioners Room

LAKE OF THE WOODS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAY BE ATTENDING THE FOLLOWING:

AMC JOINT LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE: February 26-27 in St. Paul

AMC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: March 26-28 in Nisswa

AMC DISTRICT 2 MEETING: UNKNOWN DATE May or June

AMC POLICY COMMITTEE: September 10-12 in Alexandria

AMC ANNUAL CONFERENCE: December 8-10 in Bloomington

LAKE OF THE WOODS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETINGS

Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners will be attending these meetings on the 3^rd 

Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Commissioners Room at the Government Center

Set Work Session

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to set a work session for January 14, 2025 following the regular board meeting.

Permission to bid for Legal Publishing Bids

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the request to advertise for Legal Publishing Bids.

Gambling Permit Approval

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously with Commissioner Ed Arnesen abstaining to approve the following:

RESOLUTION APPROVING 

LAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITY AND PREMISES PERMIT APPLICATION 

RESOLUTION NO. 24-12-01

WHEREAS; the Lake of the Woods Drifters has submitted a lease for lawful gambling activity and a premises permit application for Minnesota Lawful Gambling to be conducted at the following establishment, which is located in Lake of the Woods County:

Rock Harbor Lodge, 6760 Rocky Point RD NW Roosevelt, MN 56673

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners hereby approves said application for submission to the Minnesota Gambling Control Board.

Correspondence

The board reviewed correspondence from MCIT

Approval of Snowmobile Grant-in-Aid 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the FY 2025 Snowmobile Grant-in-Aid for LOW Drifters/Big Traverse and NW Angle EdgeRiders in the amount of $163,359.40 and for County Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Sheriff

Stonegarden Sheriff Salary

Resolution

The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the following:

AMEND COUNTY SHERIFF SALARY

Resolution No. 24-12-02

WHEREAS, the United States Department of Homeland Security has asked local law enforcement agencies along our Nation’s border to step up border monitoring, pursue joint objectives, and enhance their capabilities for providing border security; and,

WHEREAS, in an effort to assist local governments in fulfilling this request, the Department of Homeland Security through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division, offered “Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office is a successful recipient of an Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant; and,

WHEREAS, the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff has undertaken, as additional duties, the responsibility to avail himself and his officers for additional training, or to provide such training for his officers’ himself, for border protection and border security, and the additional duties of improving the distinct capability of the sheriffs’ office as a whole with regard to border security and border patrol as part of a joint mission; and in addition, as and for additional duties, the sheriff will necessarily devote more of his own time to border patrol and border enforcement; and,

WHEREAS, the Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant given to assist the Lake of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office in its efforts to secure the border includes the sum of $118,503.00 and $94,250.00 of this grant is for salaries.

WHEREAS, it is estimated that these additional border security duties will necessitate that the Sheriff expend on average another eight (8) hours per week; and,

WHEREAS, through the Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant, all of the additional overtime worked by officers devoted to border security issues is fully reimbursable under the grant, including the cost of officer overtime pay, PERA, Medicare and worker’s compensation, so that the net cost of the additional homeland security duties to Lake of the Woods County is fully reimbursed by the grant.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the resolution setting the sheriff’s salary, as originally set by this board on December 28, 2023 was $103,710.08 and fringe benefits were $19,860.48, be amended so that the sheriff’s salary is increased by the sum up to $20,583.68 and fringe benefits are increased up to $3,941.57 commencing January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024, with the increase funding from the Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant contingent upon the following:

1.  That the Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant funding be available; and

2. That the Sheriff works, in addition to his regular duties, eight (8) hours per week of said Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant.

At such time that the Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant funding is no longer available and/or if the Sheriff is unable to complete the additional eight (8) hours per week of Operation Stonegarden 2022 grant work, the Sheriff’s salary shall return to the original balance set by the board on December 28, 2023 in addition to the accumulated Stonegarden wages earned based on Stonegarden funding available and actual hours worked.

FY2023 Operation Stonegarden Grant

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the FY2023 Operation Stonegarden Grant in the amount of $123,750.00.

Public Works

Updates

County Engineer Anthony Pirkl gave an update on various Highway and Solid Waste projects.

Warroad Watershed Draft Letter Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the draft letter to Warroad Watershed with proposed verbiage and for Chair Cody Hasbargen to sign the same.

Final Payment SAP 039-635-012 Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the final payment of SAP 039-635-012 for Mark Sand & Gravel Co. of Fergus Falls, MN in the total amount of $3,448,910.24 and hereby authorize final payment of $403,736.14.

County Surveyor RFP Recommendation Approval

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to approve the recommendation to accept the County Surveyor RFP from Bolton & Menk for the year 2025.

Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

Ben Bergey, Cheryl Kelley-Dobie, Kerry Ross, and Adam Munstenteiger gave an update regarding land sales and answered questions from the board.

Tourism Update

Joe Henry gave an update regarding tourism in Lake of the Woods County and reviewed changes to the budget and bylaws.

Motion 

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to approve the Tourism Bureau budget as presented.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve a change to the bylaws recommending quorum requirements go from 5 members to 3 members present.

Lakewood Health Contract Renewal

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Ed Arnesen and carried unanimously to approve the Lakewood Health Contract as presented for the year 2025 and for Chair Cody Hasbargen, and Auditor-Treasurer Lorene Hanson to sign the same.

Opioid Advisory Council Recommendation

Lakewood Public Health Nurse Kay Schell gave an update on the opioid settlement funds and recommended the approval of up to $40,000.00 for a saferoom at Lakewood Health Center.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Ed Arnesen, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to approve the request for up to $40,000.00 for a safe room at Lakewood Health Center to be paid for out of the opioid settlement fund.

Attorney/Planning Commission

Cannabis Ordinance

County Attorney Michelle Moren, Land & Water Director Josh Stromlund and members of the Planning Commission discussed the draft cannabis ordinance and gave recommendations.

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Jon Waibel, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried as follows: Voting Yes: Commissioners: Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Jon Waibel, Buck Nordlof. Voting Present: Commissioner Ed Arnesen. Voting Against: None; to approve the cannabis ordinance with the recommendations of the Planning Commission, and County Attorney Michelle Moren’s recommendation that the zoning setbacks be in accordance with Minnesota law.

JP Sweet-County Fair Update

JP Sweet gave an update about the county fair and the cost of carnivals for 2025. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to increase the amount for the fairboard from $25,000 to $31,500 out of Con-Con funds for the 2025 County Fair.

RECESS
A brief recess took place at 12:15p.m. and reconvened at 6:00p.m.

Truth In Taxation Meeting

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Joe Grund, seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof and carried unanimously to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Truth In Taxation meeting at 6:00p.m. Members present, Commissioners Cody Hasbargen, Joe Grund, Buck Nordlof, Jon Waibel, and Ed Arnesen. Others present, County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson, County Engineer Anthony Pirkl, and Shane Lundsten.

County Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson reviewed the 2025 Proposed County Budget & Levy at the Truth In Taxation Public Hearing. 

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Joe Grund and carried unanimously to close the public hearing and open the regular meeting at 6:25 p.m.

Resolution

Resolution Adopting

Certified 2025 Budget and Tax Levy

Resolution   2024-12-03

The following Resolution was proposed and moved for adoption by Commissioner Ed Arnesen:

WHEREAS, the Proposed County Budget for the year 2025 has been reviewed by the Lake of the Woods County Board of Commissioners; and 

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following Proposed Budget and Tax Levy is hereby adopted for Lake of the Woods County for 2025:

Revenue Fund $ 2,254,700

Road & Bridge Fund $    520,000

Social Services Fund         $    620,000

Economic Development Authority Fund   $      50,000

2025 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy        $ 3,444,700

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the following amounts be levied against the unorganized townships of Lake of the Woods County for 2025:

Twp Road & Bridge $   526,470*

Twp Fire – Baudette $     28,750

Twp Fire – Williams $     20,921

Twp Fire – NW Angle $       6,500

Total $   582,641

2025

* $526,470 for Township Road & Bridge, includes $5,000 Blue Blades and $12,765 Admin of Township Roads (508,705+5,000+12,765=526,470)  

A public meeting to discuss the 2025 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy was held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. in the Lake of the Woods County Commissioners’ Room. 

The motion was seconded by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, and the same being put to a vote, was unanimously carried.

Adjourn

Motion

Motion was made by Commissioner Buck Nordlof, seconded by Commissioner Jon Waibel and carried unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Attest: December 27, 2024

________________________________             _________________________________

Auditor/Treasurer Lorene Hanson Chair Cody Hasbargen